A significant error from the scorekeepers during the Vodafone Super Deans quarter-finals nearly resulted in a team being unjustly denied a spot in the semi-finals.
The under-18 quarter-final clash between Cuvu College and Ratu Kadavulevu School (RKS) ended with confusion as players from both teams celebrated at the final whistle at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva yesterday. Cuvu College secured a narrow victory of 23-22, but officials mistakenly announced the score as 20-22 in favor of RKS.
“The penalty try was recorded inaccurately; they noted it as five points instead of seven,” explained Jone Kanalagi, president of the Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby Union (FSSRU). Following the announcement, FSSRU executives urgently met with the scorekeepers, with Kanalagi demanding clarification on the error.
“After reviewing the score sheet, we identified the mistake. The executives are working with the scorekeepers to ensure this doesn’t happen in the future,” Kanalagi added. He also instructed the scorekeepers to avoid announcing scores if they were uncertain.
The announcement that RKS had won resulted in some Cuvu players being visibly distraught, while RKS supporters celebrated, though their cheers were short-lived as officials later corrected the decision.
Cuvu College’s assistant coach, Samisoni Navatu, commented, “The confusion arose because we had been awarded a penalty try, but the officials did not account for the two additional points. A penalty try should earn a straight seven points. We addressed the error promptly, and we are thankful the result was corrected.”
A source revealed that RKS kicked the ball out after being informed by officials that they were leading. FSSRU vice-president Biu Colati was seen discussing the situation with scorekeepers in the control room post-match.
Before the quarter-finals, Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro emphasized the importance of transparency and fairness in officiating. RKS has not commented on the situation due to a media restriction.